The number of uninsured motorists may reach an all-time high, according to a report released by Insurance Research Council in January. Their study indicates that approximately one in six drivers across the United States may be driving uninsured by 2010.

Although the estimated percentage of uninsured motorists decreased nationally, from 14.9% in 2003 to 13.8% in 2007, the recent economic downturn is expected to trigger a sharp rise in the uninsured motorist rate. The IRC estimates the uninsured driver population using a ratio of insurance claims made by individuals who were injured by uninsured drivers to claims made by individuals who were injured by insured drivers. This reinforces the need to communicate early with your existing clients about the options available other than letting their policies lapse.